A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Shenandoah National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking, serene, and beautiful national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Beaufort different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shenandoah National Park and Beaufort. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Beaufort is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is a town with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Beaufort. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Evening events are respectable in both Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park.

Most people don't head to Beaufort specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Shenandoah National Park. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is a town with good options for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Beaufort. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is great for its historic old town charm. However, Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Beaufort is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Shenandoah National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Shenandoah National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Beaufort has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Shenandoah National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.


Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Neither Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Shenandoah National Park

Beaufort is great for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable town. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.


For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than Beaufort because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Shenandoah National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beaufort that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful national park of Shenandoah National Park offers food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Shenandoah National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Shenandoah National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Shenandoah National Park or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Shenandoah National Park is $125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Beaufort


Hotels in Shenandoah National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Shenandoah National Park $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah National Park and Beaufort change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Beaufort $31
    Shenandoah National Park $28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Shenandoah National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14


When comparing the travel costs between Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park, we can see that Beaufort is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beaufort Expensive? and Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Shenandoah National Park. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Shenandoah National Park. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Shenandoah National Park. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shenandoah National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 32°F (-0°C).

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Shenandoah National Park. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Shenandoah National Park. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shenandoah National Park. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Beaufort

Beaufort Shenandoah National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)